THE ST. REGIS NEW YORK
MAGAZINE
THE BEST ADDRESS
TAILORED FOR THE ST. REGIS NEW YORK www.stregisnewyork.com WINTER 2011/2012
The St. Regis New York
LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD
Thornwillow Press Located right off the hotel’s lobby in one of the original rooms of The St. Regis New York, Thornwillow Press is a literary treasure trove. According to founder and owner Luke Ives Pontifell, it’s all about the written word and the craftsmanship involved in the presentation of the written word. Thornwillow has created a series of handprinted books called The Thornwillow Libretto, and one is placed in each of the guest rooms. The series includes short story, poetry and essay collections, children’s books and more. A custom leather-bound book makes a magnificent gift for people of all ages. There is a wide range of signed and numbered first editions available. Specially commissioned books, such as a series on the presidency, are hand-printed on handmade paper. You can also bring in a favorite book and have it custom-bound or ask Thornwillow to find a special edition of the book to bind. Stationary is another wonderful holiday gift, and Thornwillow’s offerings range from boxed note cards and stock stationery to custom monograms and designs. “All of our custom-engraved stationery is handmade by us,” Pontifell says. “Literally, every sheet of paper, every card, every envelope is hand printed.” After an order, you’ll have a permanent engraving plate that you can use again. A holiday bestseller is an engraved desk calendar set on an adjustable brass easel. Each month has its own engraved card with the days of the week and a special motif. A small pocket slip case, similar to a wallet, is also a good gift for women and men of all ages; these are available in leather, goat skins, alligator, and for the most extravagant tastes, python. Guests can also find other gift items, such as artwork, photo albums and guest books, as well as dictionaries and atlases. All purchases can be shipped domestically and internationally. (2 East 55th St.; 212-980-0738; thornwillow.com)
thornwillow press
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montblanc chronograph anniversary edition watches
montblanc grace de monaco pen
Montblanc In addition to the elegant, classic pens for which Montblanc is internationally renowned, the brand offers a full line of writing instruments, watches, jewelry, leather accessories, fragrances and eyewear for both women and men. In celebration of the 190th anniversary of the chronograph, Montblanc recently launched the Nicolas Rieussec Anniversary Edition men’s watch, which is sought after by watch collectors and connoisseurs. The unmistakable grain d’orge guilloche dial is what distinguishes the anniversary edition from other Nicolas Rieussec chronographs. Montblanc celebrates the anniversary with four distinct variations: a steel automatic version and limited manual editions in red gold, white gold and platinum. St. Regis guests can request Montblanc private appointments at the boutique or private showings in the privacy of the hotel. Montblanc can ship purchases anywhere in the U.S. Other gift suggestions for men are the Montblanc TimeWalker Collection, which combines the perfection of traditional Swiss watch making with 21st century aesthetics. For something extraordinary, there is the Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858, a vintage inspired chronograph collection with extraordinary pieces that have received international attention. Gifts for women include luxurious fine jewelry— rings, earrings, necklaces, bangles and bracelets. Montblanc’s own patented “Montblanc diamond
cut,” in the shape of the Montblanc star emblem, adorns the center of many of these pieces. The recently launched Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco pays tribute to the 20th century’s unforgettable style icon Grace Kelly. The collection consists of limited-edition fine jewelry, timepieces and writing instruments. The pieces from this collection are exquisitely crafted in Montblanc’s ateliers—every detail inspired by Princess Grace’s spirit and attention to style. Montblanc offers a unique service to create custom-made, bespoke pieces in all product categories. Clients are able to design their very own, individualized Montblanc pieces made by Montblanc craftsmen. The client takes part in the concept development and every stage of the creative process. These bespoke masterpieces can be delivered wherever the client requests. (598 Madison Ave.; 212-223-8888; montblanc.com) New York City offers shopping like nowhere else in the world because it brings the world to you. The best in Italian leather, Swiss watches, French couture and Japanese pearls are easy to find. There is also a diverse range of homegrown American items to meet every taste and desire. Shopping options range from elite establishments to bargain-hunter paradises. Whether walking along Madison Avenue or Canal Street, going it alone or led by an expert personal shopper, New York’s shops are sure to provide stunning options for yourself and everyone on your list.
inspired fabrics, such as lace and tulle, are used. Dior’s signature bows appear in crystal on the chandelier and wall sconces in the entry way, as well as on a stunning mirror in the master bedroom. The living room is reminiscent of the original Dior atelier on Avenue Montaigne in Paris, with high ceilings, carved crown moldings, wainscoting and an ornate crystal chandelier. The Dior Suite includes an original painting by Bil Donovan, resident Dior painter for cosmetics. The 5-foot-by-9-foot watercolor on canvas pictures four ladies dressed in Dior designs. Two of the figures are wearing designs from Christian Dior himself. Another figure is wearing something by Marc Bohan, artistic director of Dior from 1960 - 89, and the final figure is wearing a creation of Gianfranco Ferré, artistic director from 1989 - 97. The suite provides guests an interior exploration of a passion for fashion design. It is already the New York home of a world-famous entertainer.
OPPOSITE PAGE: BRUCE BUCK 2011; THIS PAGE (BOTTOm): mOnTBlAnC PRESEnTS THORnwIllOw’S lIBRETTO lAUnCH, IT HAPPEnEd HERE
dior suite
lesley blume
looking Fifth Avenue and spectacular views of Central Park. The bar cart is stocked with Tiffany crystal decanters and silver accessories. There is a stunning dining room with a 10-seat dining table and crystal chandelier—perfect if you are in the mood for breakfast! The one-bedroom suite can also become a beautiful two-bedroom suite should you have company. Since its debut, the suite has received extraordinary buzz on the Internet, with websites such as HotelChatter.com referring to it as a “veritable jewel box.” It has been featured in design and lifestyle publications internationally and received an amazing response from guests. In September, we debuted the Dior Suite. Its
1,700 square feet includes a foyer, living room, dining room, master bedroom and two baths, all incorporating classic aspects of Christian Dior, including signature gray carpeting seen at Dior boutiques worldwide. During his 10 years at the helm of his design house, Christian Dior himself frequently visited The St. Regis New York during his trips, often catching up with Salvador Dali in the King Cole Bar over a Red Snapper (also known as a Bloody Mary). The boutique that bears his name is just two blocks away. The House of Dior’s trademark has always been the use of beautiful textiles and elegant accents, and those are present throughout the suite. Couture-
Libretto Series Luke Ives Pontifell is also part of our Thornwillow Libretto series, which launched in July in the library. Thornwillow will publish a series of librettos, collections of exquisitely produced original works by highly respected authors, such as Jonathan Galassi, Peter Matthiessen and Stacy Schiff, all of whom have ties to New York history. The inaugural libretto, titled “It Happened Here,” written by Lesley M. M. Blume, is a social and artistic history of old New York as seen through the colorful eyes of our hotel. The series is proof of the enduring love of the written and printed word, and its continuing relevance in the technological age. About 150 people attended the libretto launch party on July 13, co-hosted by Thornwillow and Montblanc. Guests were treated to a living homage of one of The St. Regis New York’s most famous guests, the artist Salvador Dali, who lived at the hotel for a number of years. Three models had their backs creatively painted with designs incorporating artwork and poetry referencing parties that Dali hosted in his suite. There was 1920s inspired décor, including Moet Champagne served in a bathtub and a live orchestra playing music of the era. Pontifell says his overall memory is “one of sharing the delight of the new series with the kind of people who will both enjoy and sustain such projects.” The second libretto was published in November, around a new short story by Matthiessen. New librettos will be published throughout 2012. Each edition will be beautifully designed, letterpress printed books in sewn bindings. In addition to the 5,000-copy printing, each libretto will also have a special limited-edition run of 150 leather-bound, signed and numbered copies for collectors. The sT. regis MAgAZiNe wiNTer 2011/2012 35
photos by hechler photography
Maria francisca Perello, rafael nadal and Paul nash
Rafael Nadal Dinner Tennis megastar Rafael Nadal has stayed at The St. Regis New York during the US Open for the past three years. He says the staff really understands his needs, and the hotel truly feels like a home away from home. Recently, he told Bespoke Magazine, “We set up our headquarters there for the Open and have never been disappointed.” We host an intimate dinner for him just prior to the US Open each year. Despite the exclusivity of the event, the dress code is informal, which suits his easygoing style. We make it a comfortable and friendly environment, and Rafael’s grace and charm have those who have attended still talking about it years later.
rafael nadal dinner
Revisiting the Library When the hotel’s founder, Colonel John Jacob Astor IV, created The St. Regis New York, he envisioned a home away from home for his guests. He sought to give the hotel a similar feel to the mansions in which most of the guests resided. A library was definitely standard, and it was meant to cultivate an environment where guests would be comfortable. Today, that library is part of the legacy of the founder of this hotel and the St. Regis brand. In 1904, Col. Astor went to Scribner and asked the publishing house to create a library of approximately 1,500 books that would be available for the guests. In that collection were leather-bound books on a myriad of topics—from a volume on mush-
e-butLeR the st. regis New york launched e-butler at the beginning of the year, an innovative and cuttingedge personal Digital assistant (pDa) application unique to our hotel. It allows guests to interact with the hotel’s butlers and concierge before and during their stays. guests can “chat” with e-butler in real time via iphones and ipads, coordinating details of their visits in an instant. e-butler also provides information about the sights, sounds and tastes of New york city. celebrated personalities including fashion expert andré leon talley, award-winning jewelry designer alexis bittar, president of the central park conservancy Doug blonsky, restaurateur Danny Meyer, architect David rockwell, “king of cocktails” Dale Degroff, fashion designer peter som and event planner extraordinaire preston bailey share information about their favorite shops, restaurants and city landmarks, and offer exclusive content that provides a unique insider’s guide to the city.
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rooms to a book on bird nests. There are several sporting books and literature from all over the world, from Chinese and German poetry, to great American writers. Some of the books are signed, first editions. Other books are part of 12- to 15-volume sets. This past summer, we undertook a restoration of the library. Luke Ives Pontifell, founder and owner of Thornwillow Press, who runs an “invisible store” off the main lobby in one of our original rooms, oversaw a staff of four who catalogued the entire collection. Thornwillow is expert in custom leather binding, and Pontifell and his staff carefully oiled the leather and made repairs as needed. The library, which is on the second floor, is now available for private meetings and gatherings.
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The Art of
Words Bespoke publisher and bookbinder Thornwillow Press launches the new libretto series at The st. regis New York, celebrating the arts, literature and the value of a handcrafted book. By Regina MolaRo
Committed to preserving the fine art of crafting books, Thornwillow Press—a bespoke publisher and bookbinder—recently partnered with The St. Regis New York to introduce The Thornwillow Libretto, a series of limited-edition books created in the classic printing method. The handmade books celebrate the art of the written word and the special place it has in our lives. Through the series, Thornwillow Press aims to enhance the experience between the reader and the page. Not restricted to literature, The Thornwillow Libretto series also includes music and art. “In this age of disposable and intangible communication, when we delete mail, hang up the telephone and literally turn our books on and off, we believe there’s still a place for the written word—a lasting book to be here for generations and carry words on pages to audiences yet unborn,” says Luke Ives Pontifell, founder of Thornwillow Press. The artistically crafted books, which are made at a press in Newburgh, N.Y., the libretto series come in both a paper and leather bound versions and feature original typography from craftsman bookbinders. It Happened Here The Thornwillow Libretto, which debuted in July 2011, launched with “It Happened Here,” written by New York City-based author and journalist Lesley M.M. Blume, who presents a convivial, social and artistic history of old New York as seen through the prism of its grandest hotels. An elaborate fête in the library of The St. Regis New York marked the debut of the series and drew inspiration from New York’s historic past. The kickoff, regarded as an immediate success, will continue to be supported through ongoing publicity efforts, which include book signings and other various events. “The launch was marked by a publication party reminiscent of the The sT. regis MAgAZiNe wiNTer 2011/2012 41
Charlotte Pontifell
The Written Word Girls Vince Giordano’s Nighthawks
Montblanc Presents thornwillow’s libretto launch, “it haPPened here.”
grand literary events held at the St. Regis many years ago,” Pontifell says. “Guests were surprised to find unusual nods to some former St. Regis residents, such as Salvador Dali.” The eccentric Spanish painter, who once called the hotel home, made history years ago when he used the bare backs of models as a canvas for his artwork. Renowned for his wild antics, which took place at the posh hotel, Dali often made headlines and aroused much chatter among New York’s elite. Drawing inspiration from the past and in recognition of Dali’s creative expression, Thornwillow Press and the St. Regis’ opening reception featured several models whose bare backs were used as canvases to showcase beautiful verses of poetry. The artistically calligraphed words were originally written by Emily Dickinson, Jorge Luis Borges and Pontifell. Adding to the opening party’s ambiance was a massive turn-of-the-century cast-iron bathtub.
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Filled to the rim with ice and bottles of Moet & Chandon bubbly, the grandiose tub brought an artistic touch to the room. Some other highlights of the evening included remarks by Blume, CEO of Montblanc North America, Jan-Patrick Schmitz, and Pontifell. “We wanted to channel the exciting literary heyday of literary magazines, so we picked the 1920s, which oversaw the early years of ‘The New Yorker’ and ‘Vanity Fair.’ ” Blume says. “All sorts of innovations had been made in the art of short story writing in the period leading up the ’20s, and that era’s writers took the idea of the great American novel very seriously. At our launch event, we hoped to revive some of that feverish excitement in the halls of one of New York City’s great historic hotels, which itself was home to many creative luminaries over the years.” The star-studded guest list of 250 revelers was further entertained by Vince Giordano and
luke ives pontifell and lesley blume
an eight-piece jazz band called the Nighthawks. The event’s “it” list included celebrated authors, esteemed editors and musical luminary Harry Belafonte, who will author one of the upcoming libretti. At the evening’s end, bedazzled guests left with their very own copy of “It Happened Here,” which served as a keepsake of the reception. Since celebrating the beauty of the written word is paramount to both Thornwillow Press and The St. Regis New York, the duo will continue to create a host of ongoing special events to mark debuts. “We plan to publish approximately one libretto per month ranging from short stories to poetry to writings on history and personal reminiscences by celebrated voices today,” Pontifell explains. Special events will support each of these launches. Upcoming Releases The most recent literary release was by Peter Matthiessen—the only writer ever to have been
awarded two National Book Awards, one for non-fiction and the other for fiction. Matthiessen is also co-founder of “The Paris Review.” His short story “Late in the Season,” which launched in October, crackles with latent violence and sexual tension. In November, the series introduced a book that details the history of the Bloody Mary, the signature cocktail of the St. Regis. It was penned by historian and author Jeffrey M. Pogash, director of communications at Moet Hennessy USA. “The origins of one of the world’s best-loved and complex cocktails appear rooted in early 20th century Paris, possibly wending their way from fabled Harry’s New York bar across the Atlantic to the St. Regis’ King Cole bar,” Pontifell says. “But success has a thousand fathers, and the Bloody Mary has at least a few, including legendary bon vivant George Jessel and the St. Regis’ legendary bartender Fernand Petiot, The sT. regis MAgAZiNe wiNTer 2011/2012 43
whose rivalry animates this winsome chapter in the history of modern mixology.” Additional upcoming releases include Lewis Carroll’s “The Walrus and the Carpenter,” a volume of Elizabeth Bishop poetry and a Louis Begley short story. The lives of American presidents will be highlighted in another libretto series: “Over the course of the last several years, Thornwillow has published an ongoing series of volumes celebrating the American presidency,” Pontifell reveals. “These volumes, each dedicated to a different president, have included facsimiles of writings and documents by the presidents along with writings by contemporary historians W.W. Abbot and Wendell Garrett.” To date, volumes on Washington, Adams, Jefferson and Madison have been completed, and a volume on Jackson forthcoming this winter. Each volume is limited to an edition of 250 letterpress printed copies, and each is numbered and signed by the historian. Fifty copies of each edition have been specially bound and boxed with a limited edition Montblanc fountain pen made especially for the series. Copies of each of the presidency books along with other Thornwillow publications are in the permanent collection of The White House and the Library of Congress. Beyond offering literature for the hotel’s wellread and well-bred, The Thornwillow Libretto also extends to the little stars that will shine brightly in years to come. A children’s book series, launched in November, highlights the fantasy and moral lessons associated with myths and fairytales. The comprehensive collection was gathered from cultures worldwide, from India and China to Native America, Europe, Russia and the Arctic. Collected and retold by award-winning storyteller, author and educator Bill Gordh, the series “The Seven Towers of Wonder: A Collection of Myths and Fairy Tales of Virtue” was illustrated by artist John Hutton. Comprised of seven volumes, each will feature stories about a different virtue from courage to love, charity and beyond. The first to debut is “The Tower of Courage.”
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“Bloody Mary” By jeffrey pogash
Limited to 350 copies, all will be signed and numbered by both Gordh and Hutton. Fine art and music are also included in the cultural series. Periodically, Thornwillow will organize special library evenings to celebrate cultural activities that it is particularly proud of. In October, together with Montblanc, Thornwillow hosted a dinner to celebrate musical great Harry Bicket and the world-renowned baroque orchestra “The English Concert.” The intimate dinner followed the orchestra’s performance at Carnegie Hall and is reminiscent of the midnight suppers hosted by Colonel John Jacob Astor IV, founder of the St. Regis. On the art front, work by celebrated artist and photographer William Wegman showcases his alphabet of dogs. Published a few years ago, the portfolio of dog images is signed and numbered. It is currently displayed at The St. Regis New York’s Thornwillow Library Gallery. Other art releases will continually debut as The Thornwillow Libretto series unfolds.
A TreAsured GifT The holiday season is the ideal time to shop for friends and family or even start a wish list of your own. The hotel’s shop, The Thornwillow at the St. Regis, offers an array of beautiful gifts at various prices. The collection ranges from $40 for a box of hand-engraved correspondence cards and envelopes, to $650 for a chic alligator slipcase wallet and $10,000 for the Wegman art portfolio. While you’re in town, be sure to browse the intimate shop to stock up on some unique and artistic gifts, or pick up some holiday cards that are sure to make quite an impression. For more information, visit thornwillow.com.